Playing casually. Just be cool.

Sometimes it's nice just to settle down and de-stress with a casual game.  In fact, according to a research study conducted a few years ago, playing thirty minutes of casual games can actually have a positive effect on your health.  That's why I like to kick back and enjoy some nice, peaceful Popcap games.

If you're looking to take a break from having twelve-year olds scream at you in Call of Duty, you should check out Bejeweled 3.  In case you have been living under a rock or just don't pay attention to casual games, I'll explain the basic premise of Bejeweled.  Bejeweled is a puzzle/matching game where you match sets of 3 or more gems to score points and eventually move on to longer levels.  Each level is accompanied by a very soothing soundtrack that just makes you feel happier and more at peace.  There are also other gameplay modes that are more challenging, like lightning mode where speed counts, or butterfly mode where your goal is to keep special butterfly gems from reaching the top of the screen.  If you're just looking to chill, you can also turn on zen mode which is an endless game.  In zen mode you can pick which soothing sounds you play to.  Want to listen to softly falling rain while you match gems?  It can happen.

Another great Popcap game is Plants vs. Zombies or the newer Plants vs. Zombies 2 (I'm pretty sure #2 is only available only available on the iPad).  Plants vs. Zombies is a tower defense game where the player must use an arsenal of attacking plants to defend their home from zombies.  The zombies and levels get tougher as you progress--some levels take place at night and the player can only use nocturnal plants while others take place on a pool or roof and require their own special sets of plants.  PvZ is a completely goofy game and is appropriate for all ages.

Maybe matching jewels or shooting peas at zombies isn't your thing.  Peggle might be right up your alley.  Peggle is a pachinko style game where the player shoots balls at different patterns of pegs with the immediate goal of hitting all the orange pegs and the ultimate goal of hitting all the pegs.  Clearing all the pegs requires some masterful aiming and players who are up for a real challenge can try out the challenge levels.  There are tons of unique characters, guides, and patterns to keep you shooting.

Take a breather from your usual games and kick back with cheery, casual Popcap games.